Microgreens and sprouts are both young plants, harvested early in their growth cycle, and are packed with nutrients. However, they are not the same and have key differences in their growth process, harvest time, and how they are consumed.

Sprouts are the earliest stage of a plant's growth, typically harvested just 2-3 days after germination, once the seeds have sprouted. They are grown in water and require a moist environment. The entire plant—root, seed, and stem—is eaten. Because they are grown in a wet environment, sprouts have a higher risk of bacteria and need to be thoroughly washed or cooked before consumption.

Microgreens, on the other hand, are the next stage in a plant's development. They are typically harvested about 1-2 weeks after germination, once the plant has developed its first true leaves. Microgreens are grown in soil or a soil substitute, under light, and only the stems and leaves are eaten, not the seed and root. They have a more diverse flavor profile and can range from sweet to spicy, depending on the variety. Microgreens are generally considered safer to eat raw compared to sprouts due to their growing conditions.

In terms of nutritional value, both sprouts and microgreens are nutrient-dense and provide a range of health benefits. However, microgreens often contain higher concentrations of nutrients compared to their mature counterparts and sprouts.

Proper storage of microgreens is essential to maintain their freshness, flavor, and nutritional value. Here are some steps to store your microgreens:

1. Don't Wash Before Storing: Washing microgreens before storage can lead to excess moisture, which can shorten their shelf life. You can give them a rinse just before you're ready to use them.

2. Keep Microgreens Dry: If your microgreens are wet from condensation, gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Adding a paper towel to the pack can help with absorption of moisture. It is best to use paper towels that are not treated with chemicals or bleaches.

4. Refrigerate: Place the container in the refrigerator. Most microgreens prefer cooler temperatures and will stay fresh longer when refrigerated. The ideal temperature is around 39°F (4° C).

Remember, microgreens are delicate. For the best flavor and nutrition, aim to use them within 7-10 days of purchase.

Microgreens are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes to enhance flavor, color, and nutritional value. Here are some ways you can use microgreens:

1. Salads: Microgreens can be used as the main ingredient in salads, adding a burst of flavor and color.

2. Sandwiches and Wraps: Add microgreens to your sandwiches or wraps for an extra crunch and a boost of nutrients.

3. Smoothies: Blend some microgreens into your smoothies. They can add a lot of nutrients without altering the taste too much.

4. Garnish: Use microgreens to garnish dishes just before serving. They can add a gourmet touch to any dish, from soups to casseroles to just about anything you’re eating!

6. Grain Bowls and Pastas: Mix microgreens into grain bowls or pasta dishes for added texture and flavor.

7. Pizza: After baking, top your pizza with a handful of microgreens for a fresh flavorful addition.

8. Blend into Sauces: Microgreens are a wonderful way to incorporate extra nutrients and flavor into sauces. We have had customers say they are able to sneak in extra ‘greens for their kids this way.

Note- Remember, heat can wilt microgreens and may reduce their nutritional value, so it's often best to add them after cooking.

Microgreens are nutrient-dense, meaning they pack a lot of vitamins and minerals into a small amount. A little bit goes a long way, but ultimately, what you’re eating, and how you are using the greens will vary.

A good starting point is to aim for ¼ to ½ cup of microgreens per meal. This can vary depending on the type of microgreen and how you're using them. For instance, if you're using microgreens as a garnish, a small handful might be enough. But if you're making a salad with microgreens as the main ingredient, you might use a cup or two.

As for whether there's a threshold for too many microgreens, it's generally hard to eat "too many" from a nutritional standpoint. They are low in calories and high in nutrients, and eating a variety of them can help ensure you're getting a wide range of vitamins and minerals. However, like any food, it's possible to have too much of a good thing. If you're new to eating microgreens, start with smaller amounts and gradually increase to see how your body reacts.

Remember, while microgreens are a fantastic addition to a healthy diet, they are not a panacea. A balanced diet includes a variety of different plant based foods to ensure you're getting all the nutrients you need.

We love teaching others how to grow their own microgreens. We currently offer microgreen grow kits. Our larger kit comes with enough seed and grow medium for 4 grows. Our smaller kit, perfect for kiddos or as a starter kit- comes with seed and grow medium for one grow. Check out our online for to see our grow kit options. We also have grow kits for sale at our weekly farmer’s markets.

We are available for private consultations on setting up your own home grow.

We are also available for teaching opportunities at schools, home-schools, garden clubs, businesses and more.

We would love to connect with you! Please contact us at myplantprana@gmail.com or through our contact link here

If you're interested in doorstep delivery please message us here to set up a delivery or give us a call, 407-222-2558. We offer one time delivery as well as weekly and biweekly subscription deliveries. Subscribing is an excellent way to maintain a constant supply of fresh microgreens right at your doorstep.

Deliveries are made on Mondays.

At our farmer’s markets, curbside pick up or home delivery we offer cash, credit card, Apple Pay, or Zelle as payment options.

No. We are not certified organic (yet) but do not use any pesticides or chemicals. We also use OMRI coco coir for organic use, filtered water, and a controlled grow room, there is never a need for pesticides. It’s important to note that some growers will use conventional seeds, which may have pesticide residue. We do not use conventional seeds; we only use organic seeds. We are committed to providing you with the healthiest, highest quality microgreens.

We will text you the day before delivery to confirm the agreed upon delivery date and time.

No, you do not need to be home when we deliver. If you will not be home to accept the delivery please have a cooler with cold packs+ a towel out for us to place your order in.

If you are in search of specialty microgreens or looking for a specific variety not listed on our website please don’t hesitate to contact us to request a fresh sheet and explore our full range of high-quality microgreens

For customized pricing options to suit your needs, please reach out to us via our contact page or visit Chef's Contact Page

Yes! Microgreens are often considered more nutritious than mature vegetables due to their concentrated nutrient content, and this is supported by scientific research. Here are some key reasons why microgreens are nutritionally dense:

1. Concentrated Nutrients: Microgreens are harvested at an early stage of growth, typically when they have developed their first true leaves, but are still small and tender. At this stage, they contain a high concentration of essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. As the plant grows, these nutrients are spread out over a larger biomass, making the mature vegetable less nutrient-dense in comparison.

2. Nutrient Density: Nutrient density refers to the amount of nutrients in a food relative to its calorie content. Microgreens are extremely nutrient-dense, packing a significant amount of vitamins (e.g., vitamin C, vitamin K, and various B vitamins), minerals (e.g., iron, potassium, and calcium), and antioxidants into a small serving size. This means you can get a substantial nutrient boost without consuming a large quantity of food.

3. Phytonutrients and Antioxidants: Microgreens are rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants, which play a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. These compounds are more concentrated in microgreens compared to mature vegetables.

4. Rapid Growth Phase: Microgreens go through a rapid growth phase, during which they accumulate a higher density of nutrients to support their development into mature plants. This phase is characterized by intense metabolic activity, which leads to the synthesis of various bioactive compounds.

5. Short Time to Harvest: Microgreens are typically ready for harvest within 7 to 21 days after germination, depending on the plant variety. This short growing period allows them to retain their nutritional value and prevents the loss of nutrients that may occur in mature vegetables during prolonged growth and storage.

Different microgreens may have varying levels of specific nutrients, so consuming a variety of microgreens can provide a broader spectrum of nutrients.

While microgreens are indeed nutritionally dense, they are not intended to replace mature vegetables in your diet. Instead, they can complement your overall nutrition by adding diversity and concentrated nutrients to your meals. Incorporating a variety of both microgreens and mature vegetables into your diet can help ensure you receive a wide range of essential nutrients for optimal health.